Hunter

by Taylor K. Scott

To love is to embrace all that we are, even the scars of our past…

Louisa

I found love at six years old with the boy who finally got me to speak.
I gave him everything I could, loving him to the point of breaking myself; loving him even when I knew I shouldn’t.
Tragedy struck and instead of being there for me, he hurt me to the point of pushing me back inside of my shell.
That is until I became fake engaged to an up-and-coming movie star who needed reining in. A second chance presented itself; a chance to live again. The question is, how will I escape the boy who still believes I belong to him?

Daniel

Louisa Flynn is an enigma.
Brilliant at her job, always polite, but even after two years of working for me, I don’t know anything about her.
But we all have our secrets, including me, so who am I to question her?
That is until I offer her a special task of being a fake fiancée to one of my clients. Accepting my proposition reveals another side to Louisa, a side I cannot help but want to unpick and keep for myself.
The question is, will her secrets prove to be a little too deadly for me? And if so, will I be able to give her up?

Genres: Romance

Unknown Binding

About the author

You'd think being a writer, I would find this an easy feat, but talking about myself always leaves me a little stumped. So, I beg for your forgiveness when I attempt to give you a little bit of waffle about me. I'm a mother, wife and primary school teacher, who has found a passion for reading and writing. It's become so addictive I no longer watch TV, instead I get lost in alternative realities and frequently lie awake in the middle of the night with random ideas for what to put my characters through next. Music is often my muse but I also love to include real life experiences in my books. I want people to be able to relate to my characters and to know that they're not the only ones to go through certain difficulties, anxieties or embarrassing situations. I like to think my stories are different from one another, some being romantic comedies whilst others are full of suspense. Hopefully you agree and will enjoy getting lost inside of my head for a while. My serving suggestion is to indulge with a side dish of something sweet, something comfy and where possible, a golden retriever to curl up next to.

Reviews

[Marion Löw · Rating 5 out of 5]

Couldn’t Put It Down

Another great book in the series that had me hooked from the start. I'm a big fan of the author, who always puts a touching spin on traumatic stories and encourages us to rethink. In this book, she takes her readers into other milieus and clearly shows that the world is not all black and white. I never thought I could empathise and sympathise with gang members and killers, but it pays to look behind the facade.
The story with its social disparity, love triangle and boss-employee tropes is a whirlwind of emotions, packed with drama, suspense, danger, passion and some twists and turns. I really advise all interested readers to take the trigger warnings seriously, even if most of the upsetting scenes are in flashback and not overly graphic.
The characters are well developed with great depths, they are absolutely endearing and I quickly fell in love with Daniel's calm, compassionate and comforting nature. Luisa is an interesting, strong character who acts in two different worlds.
The chemistry between the two was great and passionate.
I also liked Luisa‘s overprotective older brother Phoenix and I can’t wait for his story.
The book is written in dual FOV and present tense.

Daniel Hunter and Theo Chase are best friends since childhood and successful business partners. Daniel is the serious, tough strategist in their company.

When they are assigned to polish up an fallen actor's battered reputation, Daniel devises a plan to let him fake an engagement with a respectable woman and his choice immediately falls on Luisa, their quiet, reserved PA.
At least that's what he thinks of her until he sees her in her private life. Suddenly, the idea of a fake engagement between Trent and Louisa is no longer palatable because he wants her for himself.

After the death of her mother shortly after her birth, Lydia was raised by her late father, a former member of a biker gang and owner of a biker bar, her overprotective brother Phoenix and family friends who became her second parents. This is where she met her son, her childhood friend and her first love Antonio.
But tragedies and traumatic experiences keep occurring, her only support being her brother Phoenix.

When Daniel asks her to pose as the fake fiancée of the spoiled, immature actor Trent, she reluctantly agrees. It's her chance to put her past behind her, nevertheless she still has to deal with her traumatic experiences, her overprotective brother, her dangerous ex-lover Antonio who won't take no for an answer, and her burgeoning feelings for Daniel, who comes from a completely different world...

A gripping story, full of emotions, heat and suspense, and characters you'll fall in love with!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Debbie Humpage-Gibbons · Rating 5 out of 5]

𝐀𝐧𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐀𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐄𝐦𝐨𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐑𝐞𝐚𝐝!!

Every time I get to read another book by this author it always surprises me how emotional I get and by now it really shouldn’t! But when I enter her book worlds they bring with it angst, drama, sometimes tragic storylines but from a place of love.

Hunter is the second book in the series, it can be read as a standalone but I suggest you read Chase first. This book allows to be devoured by Daniel and Louisa’s story and for me yes it’s about Daniel Hunter (as the name suggests) but it was more about the woman who captures is heart.

Louisa works as a PA at the company that Daniel runs with Theo, his best friend. Around the office Louisa is more than competent in her role but she dresses down and wears things that are more befitting of someone more mature in age. This prompts Daniel to think she’d be the perfect person to help with an issue that they have with one of their clients.

Now, appearances can be deceptive as Daniel finds out and when seeing Louisa in a different light begins to think more of her. To begin with when this first happened I’ve got to be honest I wasn’t sure whether they would be the right fit for each other because it seemed a bit superficial but as the story went on we find out more about Louisa and her past. And we also find out what kind of person Daniel is.

I loved the fact that Taylor gives us an amazingly strong and resilient FMC and I was so happy that Daniel didn’t back down in parts of the story.

For anyone that hasn’t read @taylorkscott.author books I truly advise you to, if you are after romance (yes you get it) but if you’re after a story that has you gripped with emotional pull, then her books are for you. I’m not saying it’s all tears but you do pause for thought whenever you read them.

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lou is strong, courageous and admirable. She has been though a lot at a young age but she is able to live her life. She might have an overprotective brother and have moments of vulnerability but she knows what she wants and will strive for it.

Daniel might appear to have been raised with a silver spoon and a little bull headed, but he has a good heart and will do what he can for his friends. He has good head on his shoulders.

These two! They are employer-employee but one awkward arrangement has Daniel seeing Lou in a different light, one of a woman who might be timid at times but also one who isn’t shy about who she is. He becomes protective over her and encourages her to be who she is. He is sensitive toward her. Lou might not like Daniel at first outside of her employer employee relationship with his aloofness but finds safety and comfort and in him over time and the sort of warmth she yearns for after her past. The two of them develop feelings over time and we cheer for them by book’s end.

We also see the return of Izzy and Theo and a few others while meeting a whole new crew from Lou’s side that play a big role in shaping the story. There is anger, sadness, disappointed and despair but also tenderness, endearment, humor and joy. The author did a great job pulling out the multifaceted mess of these characters, and I am so glad Phoenix will be getting a story. I also wonder if Javier will have one?.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Dee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Part of the Reawakened Series each can be read as a standalone with an overprotective sexy and the one who captures his undivided attention in the best way. Louisa is sweet, spicy when she needs to be but to most, she is more of a shy girl, but her life hasn’t always been easy losing her mother in a house fire, her father passed, losing her best friend, but she still has an extremely overprotective brother who loves her to the end of the earth and back. She works as a secretary to demanding bosses and they need her to pretend to be the girlfriend of a client who is tanking his own career, and they need to do some damage control. Daniel and Theo sexy as all get out bosses love their secretary good at her job but on the mousey side until they asked her to pretend to be the girlfriend for one of their clients but he learns so much about her when he left her with his phone and needed it showing up at her resident which happens to be a biker bar out in the middle of nowhere but showing up unannounced he gets the surprise he never expected. His mousey little secretary is anything, but a mouse and he is loving it. Daniel might appear to have been raised with a silver spoon and a little thick headed at times, but he has a good heart and will protect those he care about but with her extremely (we can’t express extreme enough) overprotective brother will she get the chance to date, can they see past boss/employee stigma, will she see that there is more to life than her past, and can they find a balance between work and happiness?

[A.G. Harris · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. I've read a few of the author's works, and there's always something that makes me empathize and connect with the characters. I don’t want to give away any surprises, but I’ll start by saying you have Lou, who is a secretary for Daniel. Daniel needs her to pretend to date/be engaged to an actor who is soon becoming out of control and going to ruin his career. However, Daniel soon discovers a hidden side of Lou. When he caught onto it, I was giddy with excitement to see how their relationship would develop. Of course, the drama builds, and Lou’s backstory and past come back to haunt her.
Then you have Daniel and his backstory with his twin—heartbreaking. It really showed insight into his character and his need to help Lou since he wasn’t able to help his brother.

This might be a potential spoiler so skip this paragraph I don’t mention any names and without any content I don’t think it spoils but just incase…
There is another twist at the very end that I wasn’t expecting, but it made me appreciate a side character who saw the path Lou would have walked down. It would have destroyed her, so he changed it without anyone knowing.

Final thoughts spoiler free :)
I think the book had enough drama, tropes, and twists. It kept me interested and wanting to read more, and I don’t say that lightly. I kept trying to stay up to read this despite having extreme jet lag, so that’s when you know you like the book.

[Tracy ann Robinson · Rating 5 out of 5]

this Author is one of my favorite's always a hot addictive read with a very good story. Louisa only has her brother Phoenix; she lost her mother in a house fire and her father passed away leaving the bar to Phoenix. He is so protective of his sister as you will find out when you read the story why. Louisa works for Daniel and Theo, and she is like a mouse. Daniel wants her to pretend to be their new clients Trent s girlfriend. she agrees they go to a venue and Daniel gives her his phone .and now he needs it, so they go to Louisa s home address and get a shock it's a biker's pub out in the dessert. but when both men see her, they are shocked she is so different to the woman in office she is hot, and Damien wants her. her bother makes her dress like that you will so love this story tearful in places. Louisa is one strong character .so can't wait for Phoenix s story I recommend every book from this author.

[Pauline · Rating 5 out of 5]

Second book in the series. Nicely follows on from Chase's story in the first one though not necessary it is better to read in order. Daniel is Chase's bestie and business partner. Goodlooking, smart, well-mannered, well to do family. Louisa,on the other hand, is their PA, a demure wallflower dresssed in Granny clothing! Ideal for their new job contract; fake fiancèe for a wayward movie star whose image needs a boost.
Little do they know what Louisa is hiding under that unbecoming attire! I'll give just a hint! Bikers' bar. Daniel finds himself smitten and regretting this new assignment though Louisa can hold her own against the Hollywood man child!
Great storytelling with drama, tragic events, romance, a love triangle and a chuckle now and again. Personally, I loved Louisa's brother Phoenix. A big softie behind the tats and leathers. All in all, reommended reading.
Received an ARC from Booksprout but read via Kindle Unlimited in the end.

[Shawna · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved Hunter - Reawakened #2. Daniel needs a wallflower to be a client’s fake fiancé and Louisa his PA is perfect. It isn’t until he gets to know the real her that he regrets putting her in that position. She hasn’t had an easy past and the more he learns, the more he falls for her. Daniel is nothing like her ex or her brother, which in her book is a good thing. Unfortunately, she’s still dealing with the last but Daniel is going to be her future. When a simple mistake could take away her future with Daniel, she’s devastated. Will Daniel and Louisa get the future they deserve? I loved the storyline and the characters. She’s so strong and he loves that, he wants an equal. I would definitely recommend this book and I can’t wait for Phoenix’s book.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Esmeralda Cruz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Taylor K Scott's "Hunter: Reawakened Series" is a sensuous and interesting romance that explores the complexities of the human heart. Daniel's fascination with the mysterious Louisa Flynn sends him down a deadly path of secrets, deception, and passion. As they manage their fictitious engagement, the lines between truth and lie blur, and their desires become more difficult to resist. With its fascinating characters, intricate plot, and boiling heat, this series is a must-read for romance, drama, and suspense aficionados. Taylor K Scott's writing is captivating and excellent, creating a story that will keep you on the edge of your seat, wondering what secrets Louisa has and whether Daniel will be able to deal with the reality.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Interesting story. Powerful characters, both Daniel and Louisa our main characters, and the secondary characters who are a major part of the story, her brother Phoenix and the Ortega brothers, Tony and Javier.
It takes a while before we get to the Daniel and Louisa part as much of the story is centered on the relationship between Louisa and her brother, and Louisa and her childhood sweetheart Tony. Through flashbacks, we get the history of her life, their childhood and the traumatic events that lead to the end of them.
It's a well written, complex story that is well paced and had me intrigued and turning the pages to see how this was all going to play out.
While it had its moments, this is not a lighthearted read, be prepared to be shocked and saddened, but hopeful for the happy ending we know it has, but wondered for a while if we were going to get!

[Tasha_loves_to_read · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great book! Daniel is simply perfect. The way he cares and loves Louisa was beautiful. And Louisa being so ballsy and going for what she wanted despite her trauma. She was so brave and strong and really needed Daniel to show her what is good in life. I'll be honest though, I couldn’t get head around the Tony situation and the reasoning but I can understand why she felt that way. Phoenix is the amazing protective, alpha big brother that only wanted to keep her safe although I wouldn't agree with the granny clothes 😂. Now what I wasn't expecting was that little plot twist at the end. Taylor, I don't know why I'm surprised as you always do it! I'm excited for the next book in the series!

[Lilibet · Rating 5 out of 5]

The second book of a set of the three standalone series, 'Reawakened'. A different take on a love triangle/fake engagement, contemporary romance by Taylor-K-Scott. Contains trigger warnings!

I loved this story so much. Taylor K. Scott never fails to pull me in by my heartstrings.

Daniel is such a sweet and loving man. He's exactly what Louisa needs.

Louisa is a strong woman who has been through a traumatic time but still has balls of steel and knows exactly what she wants. I love the protective older brother Phoenix too, he may look mean but he's got such a big heart.

I highly recommend reading this book you will not be disappointed. I love a romantic suspenseful and emotional read.

[Bookaholic blonde · Rating 5 out of 5]

Taylor, you never cease to amaze me with your storytelling. 🥰
This book truly pulls on the heartstrings. I totally fell in love with the characters Daniel and Louisa, cheering them on, but holy hotness Phoenix is just another level. You totally understand how Louisa must have felt, What a strong lady! I literally couldn't put this book down. I loved how seamless the book went from past to present, giving that all important background information. I would definitely recommend reading the first book, Chase, to fully engage with the characters. I can't wait for Phoenix's book. Please read trigger warnings ⚠️ This is a must-read! ❤️

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book in the series, and I would definitely recommend reading Chase first, as the characters overlap. I loved both main characters; Louisa and Daniel. They both came across as realistic and had both suffered loss in their lives. (I would read the trigger warnings before starting this series.)

I thought the book was very well written. I enjoyed how the present and past were blended together within the same chapter, thereby giving us the history of and between the characters, without it feeling like the timeline in the book is covering decades.

I am really looking forward to reading Phoenix's story in the next book in this series.

[Rhonda Boone · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was so captivated by Louisa and Daniel's story..their struggles and their new found love for each other...this read has dark themes, its raw, gritty emotionally charged, lots of twists and turns that will have your head spinning...wonderfully written characters that are captivating in a world that's extremely multi-layered. Off the charts chemistry, drama, suspensful, unforgettable and definitely unputdownable!! There really are NO perfect words to express how remarkable this book is...

I received an advanced reader copy and leaving my honest review voluntarily.

[Jackie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really liked the different take on planning a fake engagement for his client. I also liked that Daniel had the complete wrong impression of his personal assistant and is shocked when he finds out what she does outside of work. This book was one wild ride. Lou and Daniel couldn't be more different but they are exactly what the other needs. Such a sweet and heartbreaking story. I also enjoyed Phoenix and hope to see more about him...

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Priscilla · Rating 4 out of 5]

A lot of trauma to unpack here. Please read the trigger warnings for this book. Louisa is a strong character that has been through a lot and Daniel is great to provide the support and balance she needs. The plot felt a bit all over the place in the beginning and it did get better as the story progressed. Really heartfelt and a good story.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Brenda Moser · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great book to the series! The author once again brings strong characters in Louisa and Daniel and takes you into their lives with drama, emotions and heat and kept me turning the pages with all the action. It's well written with perfectly painted scenes, moves fluidly and is a fantastic read.

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and are freely given.

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a gripping story full of emotion and tragedy. It has some dark aspects with some possible triggers. I was completely hooked in the story of Daniel and Louisa. This is a fake to more story with a twists or two. I could not put this story down until the very end. I love the suspense, mystery, humor, passion and incredible twists I did not see coming. I cannot wait to read Phoenix's story.

[Nate · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was Daniel and Louisa’s story. Louisa Flynn is an enigma. Brilliant at her job, always polite, but even after two years of working for Daniel, he still doesn’t know anything about her. Everyone has their skeletons. Until he offers her a special task of being a fake fiancée to one of his clients. Accepting the proposition reveals another side to Louisa. It was an intriguing read. And am voluntarily leaving this review.

[Jenni · Rating 5 out of 5]

Louisa had been through a lot, Daniel found himself intrigued by her, since she started working for him. When she's put in the cross line of her past can he be the one to keep her safe. Well written steamy desires, action, drama, emotions and more.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Jan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thoroughly emotional and oh, so delicious. The side characters in this one are really intriguing. It left me feeling really conflicted over the 'third person' in this interesting take on a love triangle. I didn't know whether to feel sympathetic or plain angry with him. But the guy who has left me really excited (because I know he's the next book) is Phoenix. Great story telling.

[Liana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow Louisa has gone through it all how she’s still standing I do not know and it’s definitely not going to get any easier for her. Great second book to the series pulled on the heartstrings at one point I didn’t know who to cheer on for her heart but the best man definitely won.

[TELA666 · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars
Daniel & Louisa
A lot of things are happening at once; flashbacks, fake relationship, new attraction & multiple TW topics. Louisa seems very meek until she trusts her surroundings or the people around her.